Skip to content 
Phase 2 ESA
Subsurface investigations (Phase II ESA) investigations are used to assess the lateral and vertical extent of the impact of soil, groundwater, or vapor under a property’s surface. We review your information and help make sure you get what you need with speed & accuracy. Get a Quote Preview modal-
We Are Your One Stop Shop for a Hassle Free Phase 2 Investigation
If the Phase 1 ESA report comes back with a Recognized Environmental Condition (REC) or any other environmental issue, you will likely have to conduct further testing with the Phase 2 ESA. Unlike Phase 1 ESA, it involves digging and evaluation of samples to confirm the presence of the contaminants.
If you need help detecting contamination and identifying potential liabilities that could bring down the value of your property, Essel Environmental has got you covered. We’ll perform a full-scale Phase 2 ESA to limit the risk and protect you from significant environmental liabilities and long-term costs.
Our Phase 2 ESA tests include groundwater assessment, surficial and sub-surficial soil analysis, indoor air sampling, and more. We base our Phase 2 ESA scope of work based on the findings from the Phase 1 ESA.
Phase 2 Environmental Site Assessment Experts
Phase 2 ESA: Environmental Consulting By Local Experts with National Presence
A Phase 2 ESA is most commonly required when a Phase 1 ESA identifies a Recognized Environmental Condition (REC). Development and construction projects often require a Phase 2 site investigation, also known as a Phase 2 ESA, is to identify any potential contamination present underground.
There is not “standard” off the shelf Phase 2 ESA. The scope of work and cost for a Phase 2 ESA / Phase 2 Investigation varies based on the scope of work and what it will investigate.
Your bank may be requiring a Phase 2 ESA as a requirement to close a loan. Our team of environmental experts will help guide you through the options to ensure you comply with the requirements for the bank but also protect your liability.
Subsurface investigations consists of a site specific health and safety plan, procurement of permits from the regulatory agency, drilling of soil borings around the area of suspected impacted soil, collection of soil samples for soil lithologic classification, in-field screening for undifferentiated volatile organic compounds and laboratory chemical analysis, groundwater monitoring, well or remedial well installation, survey of the newly installed groundwater monitoring or remedial wells for elevation and location, and evaluation of data and report preparation.
When residential properties are being converted from commercial uses, for example, planning commissions will require investigations to be performed before project approvals are provided.
We are here to help advise you on what will be the best option for you. Speak with us today to discuss your Phase 2 ESA needs, amongst other environmental consulting service needs and how we can quickly and efficiently meet them. Call us at +1-800-595-7616 or fill out our quick and easy contact form. Our experts can review your existing reports and provide you with the guidance to get your transaction or project completed while protecting your liability.
Professional Service
The Essel Environmental staff is fully trained and certified for all inspections / services we perform.
Personal Attention
We ensure the project team is kept informed throughout the milestones & stages of the project
Fast and Thorough
We work with your intended turnaround time and help make sure we work backwards from your key dates.
What You Can Expect From Our Subsurface Investigations
Essel Environmental offers complete, thorough and expedited Phase 1 and 2 Environmental Site Assessment reporting and consulting services that are uniquely tailored to commercial property transactions and projects. We employ a wide range of investigative methods, procedures and equipment to explore the subsurface and to characterize soil, rock and groundwater conditions. Many factors, including budget, schedule, client needs and expectations, as well as standards of practice and technical data requirements, are considered when developing an investigation program. Our objective in all cases is to apply the technology that best satisfies the needs of the project.
Learn More about Our Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment.
Types of Phase 2 ESA Sampling Services
Soil and Water Samples
Sightings of sheen on accumulated water or oil stains on the soil may be an indicator that you need Phase 2 ESA investigation. Our team can collect and test your water and soil samples to know the extent of the contamination before you begin your project. We use advanced field testing equipment to determine the presence or absence of contaminants.
We may also gather samples for further analysis in the laboratory. With this test, we will help you determine whether the soil or water quality of your property meets state or federal regulations.
Subsurface Soil Borings
Soil contamination of properties can spread out well below the surface of the soil. In such cases, you need more than a Phase 1 ESA to get a detailed picture of the contamination. Our Phase 2 investigation involves digging to collect soil samples from the lower depths.
From boring to drilling, our team uses innovative field testing equipment to reach the subsurface soil and get some samples. We’ll then send the soil samples to our laboratories for further testing.
Groundwater Sampling
Does your property have underground storage tanks? If you do, you may need groundwater testing for contamination. Our team can visit your property and collect the groundwater samples.
Unlike before, when you need to install conventional wells to collect groundwater samples, our advanced technology allows us to use temporary monitoring wells that are convenient and stress-free.
We can collect the groundwater samples on the same day of the well installation, reducing waste generation. After drilling to collect soil samples, we can also collect the groundwater that pools for further analysis in our laboratory.
Drum Sampling
Unmarked drums on your property can become a potential environmental hazard. During our Phase 2 sampling, we will check out all the drums or containers in your property to make sure they do not pose any risk. Our team will also gather the content of the drums and analyze them to figure out the nature of the material inside.
Additionally, we can help you find a proper way to dispose of the contents of the drum in compliance with local and federal regulations.
Sampling of Floor Drains, Dry Wells, and Catch Basins
Floor drains, dry wells, and catch basins can be a source of environmental concerns. These structures may contain materials that can be classified as RECs. We will gather the samples of materials in these structures or from their outfalls and submit them to our laboratory for further analysis.
Transformer and Capacitor Sampling
Got old transformers in your property? Old transformers used Polychlorinated Biphenyls or PCB oil. If these transformers aren’t labeled for PCBs, they are suspect. Our team will conduct sampling to determine the absence or presence of PCBs.
Geophysical Testing
If your property has buried tanks or drums, you will need geophysical testing. After setting up grids, our team uses state-of-the-art equipment to identify potential areas for disturbed soil or metal.
Evaluation of Underground Storage Tanks
If you have a property that used underground storage tanks for an operation like gas stations, you may need underground storage tank sampling. We’ll test the storage tanks to confirm their integrity as well as set up tank pit monitoring wells to collect samples. What’s more, we’ll assess the interstitial monitoring points in the underground tanks for potential leaks.
Indoor Air Quality
Your property’s indoor air quality can have a significant impact on the health of the occupants. This is why you need indoor air testing to identify the presence of mold, chemicals, and soil contamination.
We will collect air samples for both biological and chemical analysis in our laboratories. Our biological testing compares the indoor air quality to the outdoor ambient conditions while the chemical analysis compares with the applicable standards for indoor air quality.
